Job-Related Risks for Agricultural Workers

 Posted on June 21,2024 in Workers' Compensation

North Carolina is home to a vast agriculture industry with over 100,000 agricultural employees employed in the state annually. While it is a big job creator, the agricultural industry is also among the most dangerous in terms of job-related injuries, given the physical nature of work and the numerous potential occupational hazards. If you are an agricultural worker and were injured while doing your job, speak with a dedicated Wake County, NC work injury attorney to understand your options for receiving workers’ compensation for the damages you had to pay for.

Common Causes of Injuries on Farms

While every scenario involving a farm worker getting injured on the job varies, there are some common underlying causes for their injuries. Some of the most common include:

• Heat: Since farm workers generally work outside regardless of the season, they can be exposed to strong sunlight and high temperatures. As a result, farm workers can suffer from severe sunburns and other sun-related skin conditions, dehydration, and heat stroke.

• Chemicals: Certain chemicals such as herbicides or pesticides that are often used when working with crops can be harmful to someone who comes into contact with them, whether through inhalation, or contact with the skin, eyes, or mouth.

• Overexertion: Farm work is physically demanding, with workers often needing to handle heavy machinery or heavy animals. The constant bending, heavy lifting, and strain can lead to joint, tissue, muscle, or bone injuries.

• Equipment malfunctions: As mentioned above, farm workers often handle heavy machinery like plows, combines, and tractors. Whether they are operating in the fields or transporting something on roads, equipment malfunctions could cause serious accidents resulting in severe injury.

Workers’ Compensation for Farm Workers

Like many other industries, farm workers are often eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if they are injured while doing their job. Such benefits can cover medical expenses related to their injuries as well as some of their lost wages.However, many farm workers are temporary or contract-based employees who are not always eligible for the same coverage. In such cases, there are other options available. For example, they could bring a personal injury claim against their employer or a third party that was involved. To do so, they would need to demonstrate that their injury was caused by someone else’s negligence or actions. 

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Wake County, NC Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

If you are a farm worker who got hurt on the job, speak with a qualified Raleigh, NC work injury attorney to understand your options. At Vasquez Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how distressing it can be trying to cover medical costs when you cannot even go to work. Call us at 1-844-YO-PELEO so we can review your case and seek the maximum compensation for your injuries. Hablamos español.